What does a TikTok-famous hand surgeon and the descendant of mushroom farmers in France and have in common? Purpose—and the courage to follow it, even when the path looks nothing like the plan.

Jodi Katz sat down with Dr. Erin Nance, founder of FeelBetr Health and Sonia Gaillis-Delepine, founder of Verdoie. While their companies serve different corners of the wellness space, both women share a mission: to help people better understand their bodies—and to redefine what care really looks like. Their stories of resilience, purpose, and transformation show how following your passion can lead to powerful change, even when the path takes unexpected turns. We end with a fun game of TikTok trends and what these start ups will pick to promote their brands.

Want to try Verdoie - Use Promo Code BeautyBrains20 for 20% off your first order of Clinical skincare powered by mushrooms at Verdoie.com. And Join the waitlist for FeelBetr Health at feelbetr.health/subscribe-to-feelbetr

We sat down with two trailblazers in women’s health Claire Coder, founder and CEO of Aunt Flow and Smita Asrani, VP of Partnerships at UE Life Sciences. The episode opened with childhood dreams—Claire reminisced about staging Britney Spears concerts in her closet, while Smita shared her early love of horses. Neither imagined a future in healthcare, but both ultimately found themselves tackling some of the most overlooked (and long overdue) issues in women’s wellness.

Claire shared her journey from being a Party Princess to becoming a purpose-driven entrepreneur, a path sparked by a frustrating moment on her college campus that inspired the creation of Aunt Flow. Smita talked about her pivot from a career in finance to one focused on health innovation, where she now works to expand access to early breast cancer screening for women under 40.

Their conversation delved into the challenges of career pivots, the weight of imposter syndrome, and what it’s like to lead in industries still dominated by men. They explored the impact of advocacy too—Claire’s work has helped bring period products into schools in 28 states, while Smita is helping to bring lifesaving tools like iBreast Exam to underserved communities.

The episode wrapped on a fun note with a game of “real vs. fake legislation,” revealing how surprising—and sometimes downright inspiring—health policy can be.

At its heart, this episode was a reminder to speak up, stay curious, and ask the tough questions. Because more often than not, real change starts with one brave voice.

A must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, equity, and the power of personal stories to drive public impact. Check out more info on both guests brands at GoAuntFlow.com and UELifeSciences.com.

In this raw and honest conversation, leaders Cara Kamenev, President of Stripes Beauty and Sharon del Valle, General Manager of Kose America Inc, break away from the typical leadership talk to share real, unfiltered truths about navigating life and leadership. In this episode, they dive into the power of self-trust, the importance of listening to your inner needs, and the strength found in vulnerability.

Cara opens up about how making decisions based on what you truly need—not just your goals—leads to more authentic leadership. Sharon reflects on how her framework for life evolved as she learned to adapt to shifting priorities and the importance of offering yourself grace. The conversation weaves through themes of ambition, fear, and the delicate balance of intuition and data in leadership, all while reminding us that growth isn’t about having everything figured out, but about evolving with intention.

They also explore the complexities of relationships, the importance of leaning on others, and how real leadership comes not from a title, but from alignment and authenticity. This episode is for anyone looking to embrace the journey, evolve without pressure, and understand that not having it all figured out is, in fact, part of the process.

Tune in to this powerful episode—you’ll leave with insights, but more importantly, you might walk away feeling seen. Sharon also sent us a promo code it’s WBMB20 for 20% off any of the KOSE portfolio of products found at: Decortecosmetics.com, Sekkisei-usa.com and AddictionTokyoBeauty.com.

What if the key to exceptional leadership isn’t commanding authority but leaning into vulnerability? What if the moments you feel most uncertain are the ones that hold the greatest growth opportunities?

In this week’s episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz delves into these questions with Henry Davis, CEO of Sakara Life, and Debbie Perelman, a partner at InviNext Growth. Together, they explore how leading with radical candor, authenticity, and empathy can ignite team transformation.

Debbie opens up about how Kim Scott's Radical Candor changed her perspective on leadership through behavior. Instead of fearing difficult conversations, she learned to approach them with honesty and care. For Henry, navigating leadership with ADHD has further shaped his belief that vulnerability isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower. When leaders are transparent about their challenges, they create environments where teams feel empowered to do the same.

But what does radical candor look like in practice? For Debbie, it’s focusing on recognizing each player’s strengths and guiding them toward a collective goal. Henry emphasizes the importance of continuous feedback, creating space for authentic dialogue that drives accountability and growth.

Throughout this conversation, the group explored how even small shifts can transform leadership. Jodi introduces the idea of walking meetings—a simple yet powerful change that fosters open dialogue. Both Henry and Debbie swear by the clarity that comes from moving side by side, whether along the Hudson River Greenway or through Prospect Park. There’s something about the rhythm of walking that breaks down walls and sparks honest reflection.

And it doesn’t stop at the workplace. Debbie’s advocacy with the Child Mind Institute, inspired by her daughter Maya’s journey with anxiety and selective mutism, exemplifies leadership in action. Her commitment to mental health advocacy serves as a reminder that strong leaders don’t just drive business results—they champion causes that matter.

Mentorship also takes center stage. Henry reflects on the mentors who shaped his path, offering not just guidance but unwavering belief. Debbie emphasizes the responsibility of paying it forward, encouraging today’s leaders to nurture the next generation with genuine support and actionable feedback.

So, what’s the biggest takeaway? True leadership isn’t about knowing all the answers. It’s about showing up, asking the hard questions, and creating space for others to grow.

Ever wondered how a casual compliment or a brief conversation could shape your career? Networking isn’t always about grand gestures or polished pitches—it can be as simple as noticing someone’s shoes, discussing the weather, or striking up a chat with the person standing by themselves in a crowded room. Sometimes, the smallest interactions can spark the most meaningful connections.

In the latest episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz sits down with Nancy Berger Founder of Start With a Good and Jennifer Parrott CEO of Locks & Mane for an inspiring discussion about the power of authentic relationships. Together they explore how genuine connections—built on generosity, shared stories, and a sense of community—drive success in business and beyond.

Success as they reveal throughout the conversation isn’t always linear. Nancy once dreamed of being a special education teacher before she found her true calling in publishing, where she helped launch the iconic ‘Allure Best of Beauty’ seal. Jennifer’s career journey took a few unexpected turns, from being a blackjack and poker dealer to selling door-to-door before she discovered her passion for hair extensions and helping others.

Each of their stories reveals a powerful truth that discovering what doesn't align with your purpose can be just as transformative as finding what does. Whether it’s Nancy’s pivotal meeting with Glamour’s publisher Kathy Leventhal or Jennifer’s unexpected financial rescue from a Home Shopping Network order, they’ve learned that resilience and adaptability are essential in overcoming challenges.

One of their biggest takeaways? The jobs that don’t work out are just as important as the ones that do. Recognizing when something isn’t the right fit can be a powerful guide toward discovering your true purpose and when financial setbacks arise, quick thinking, strong relationships, and the ability to pivot can transform potential disasters into opportunities for growth.

Throughout this heartfelt episode, Jennifer and Nancy both emphasize the importance of patience and positivity, recognizing that success often takes longer than expected. The key they agree, is to keep moving forward—even when the path ahead feels uncertain.

Ready to learn how genuine connections and resilience can propel you forward? 

How do childhood dreams translate into powerhouse careers? What happens when your path turns unexpectedly and leads to something even bigger?

In this episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz sits down with Dawn Hilarczyk, COO of Borghese and Vimla Black-Gupta, former CEO of Ourself, to uncover the unexpected twists, bold pivots, and defining moments that shaped their journeys.

Vimla was once voted “Most Likely to Own a Spa” in high school, a prediction that eerily foreshadowed her path in beauty and wellness. Meanwhile, Dawn had two vastly different dreams: becoming a veterinarian or a Fly Girl on In Living Color. So how did they both end up leading major beauty brands?

As they climbed the ranks, they learned that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about seizing the right moment, making fearless decisions, and trusting your instincts. From navigating corporate shake-ups to launching startups, leading legacy brands, and surviving industry disruptions, they share the behind-the-scenes realities of making it in beauty and business.

Of course, there were risks—big ones. Dawn recalls a career-defining moment that involved champagne, a leap of faith, and never looking back. Vimla talks about the power of gut instincts, the relationships that shaped her career, and the unexpected industry shift that changed everything.

What’s next for these powerhouse women? Vimla is diving into the world of wellness, consulting, and shaping the future of World Springs, a luxe mineral hot springs destination. Meanwhile, Dawn is on a mission to transform Borghese from an iconic Italian skincare brand into a modern must-have

And to top it all off, we’re playing a foodie game to pick some fun NYC dining spots, wine bars, and unexpected culinary cravings you’d never guess!

What does it take to lead with authenticity, embrace career pivots, and champion a mission that blends wellness and beauty? 

In the latest episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz sits down with Maria Warrington, CEO of Beacon Wellness Brand, for an insightful conversation on leadership, authenticity, and the evolving role of wellness in our lives.

Maria’s journey is anything but conventional. As a young student, she was laser-focused on becoming a pediatrician, drawn to the precision of surgery and the world of medicine. But life had other plans. A shift toward business and finance set her on a new trajectory—one that led to a 13-year tenure at Wolverine Worldwide and, ultimately, the helm of Beacon Wellness.

As Maria shares her story, a theme emerges: the power of adaptability. From navigating corporate finance to stepping into the sexual wellness space, she embraced each challenge with curiosity and confidence. Her move into the sexual wellness and beauty industry wasn’t just a career shift—it was deeply personal. A passion for health and wellness led her to a company dedicated to normalizing conversations about self-care.

Leading in an evolving industry takes more than business acumen—it requires authenticity, a steady hand, and a data-driven mindset. Maria shares how she stays grounded in high-pressure moments, why hiring the right people is key, and how she fosters a culture where personal wellness is just as important as professional success.

Maria also highlights the power of mentorship, shaping the next generation of leaders through guidance and support. Maria’s journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of embracing change—proving that every career pivot can lead to something greater.

If you’re looking for an episode that explores career pivots, leadership in wellness, and the importance of staying true to yourself, this conversation is for you. For more updates and exclusive content, connect with us on LinkedIn @BaseBeautyCreativeAgency or @JodiKatz. If you'd like to try any plusOne products use code WBMB20 for 20% off at checkout.

What happens when two powerhouse women sit down to talk about leadership, resilience, and the courage to embrace the unknown? You get an episode you can’t afford to miss.

In the latest episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz brings together Danessa Myricks, Founder and CEO of Danessa Myricks Beauty, and Anncy Rowe, Chief Commercial Officer of Rodan + Fields, in front of a live studio audience for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring and thought-provoking.

As the conversation unfolds, we uncover a shared thread in both women’s lives: the innate desire to teach and lead. Danessa takes us back to her childhood, where she organized mock classrooms and dreamt of guiding people up mountains—a metaphor that perfectly captures her lifelong mission to inspire. Anncy reflects on her upbringing as the eldest sibling, where leadership wasn't just a role; it was part of her identity.

Anchored by the quarter's theme, "Power Moves: Excellence in Leadership," the discussion dives deep. Anncy shares insights from Sarah Jakes Roberts’ book Power Moves: Ignite Your Confidence and Become a Force, discussing how personal power can shift depending on our environment and how crucial it is to activate that power with intention. Danessa opens up about her journey—from feeling powerless to recognizing her strength. Her mantra? Do the things that scare you. It’s a challenge she embraced over the past year and one she’s carrying forward.

Leadership styles and the impact of feedback also take center stage. Danessa reflects on her evolution from leading solely with empathy to understanding the necessity of clear expectations and constructive feedback. Anncy candidly shares her shift from leading through fear to fostering joy and meeting individual needs. Both emphasize the importance of creating safe spaces for honest communication—a key to authentic growth.

What makes this episode stand out isn’t just the remarkable achievements of these women—it’s their vulnerability. They talk about self-doubt, the power of no, and resilience's importance. It’s a raw, authentic look at what it means to grow, lead, and own your power.

If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration, strategies for personal growth, or simply a reminder that even the most successful leaders have moments of uncertainty, this episode is for you.

For more updates and exclusive content, connect with us on LinkedIn @BaseBeautyCreativeAgency or @JodiKatz.

We’re thrilled to honor the 2024 Listen Again Award winners in this special Where Brains Meet Beauty episode. Join us as we celebrate the transformative journeys of Emily Culp, Selena Cox, and Jeanine Lobell—three extraordinary women whose resilience, innovation, and leadership have driven remarkable success.

We invite you to unplug and journey through their awe-inspiring stories, rich with dynamic insights and captivating perspectives. These pioneering women guide us into a world where taking risks, embracing the unknown, and embodying resilience open the door to life-changing success.

Emily Culp’s journey as the CEO of Cover FX exemplifies integrity-driven leadership and adaptability. From her coffee-fueled, high-energy days balancing creativity, financial acumen, and family life to her evolution from CMO to CEO, Emily reflects on the importance of fostering supportive environments and embracing growth. Her episode is a masterclass in navigating a fast-paced career while staying true to your values.

In Episode 265, part of our ‘Artistry Wisdom’ quarter, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Neen, Jeanine Lobell shares her transformative journey. From dreaming of joining the circus to becoming a beauty industry icon, Jeanine reflects on building groundbreaking brands like Stila from the ground up. She explores the power of intuition, and creativity, redefining beauty standards, and offering decades of insight into entrepreneurship.

From selling candy bundles as a child to shaping retail beauty as the Executive Director DMM of Beauty at CVS, we loved diving into Selena Cox’s inspiring career journey in Episode 275. Selena throughout her career has paved the way for beauty inclusivity, revamped shade ranges, and created tools for individuals with disabilities. She’s empowered her team and forged meaningful connections nationwide, proving that small wins and human connections can spark extraordinary change.

Each of these remarkable women has carved their path, overcoming challenges, embracing change, and empowering others along the way. Their stories inspire us to take risks, stay true to our values, and never underestimate the power of persistence. As we celebrate their achievements, we’re reminded that extraordinary change begins with a bold vision and a commitment to making a difference.

Tune in, be inspired, and celebrate the power of innovation with this episode, out now. 

#WhereBrainsMeetBeauty #ListenAgainAwards #Podcast #BeautyIndustry #Innovation #Trailblazers #WomeninBeauty #SelenaCox #JeanineLobell #EmilyCulp

What if the small moments in life held the biggest power to transform? In this milestone episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, we sit down with Selena Cox, Executive Director DMM of Beauty at CVS, to explore her career journey, innovative retail leadership approach, and how she champions beauty accessibility and inclusivity.

As a self-proclaimed dreamer and a dedicated collaborator, Selena’s career has been defined by a knack for connection and her ability to turn everyday challenges into meaningful opportunities. From her early days selling candy bundles as a child to holding 11 roles in 10 years within Macy’s, Selena shares the valuable lessons she’s learned about adaptability, empathy, and the importance of embracing diversity in every sense.

Now at CVS, Selena’s work goes beyond beauty products, helping customers find joy in everyday moments—from a great mascara to a life-changing foundation match. She highlights her innovative achievements, such as reorganizing shade runs from dark-to-light to better serve a diverse customer base and creating inclusive tools for individuals with disabilities. Her ability to empathize with the customer experience has transformed the way CVS connects with its communities nationwide.

Selena’s story is a testament to the power of small wins, human connection, and dreaming big while staying grounded in purpose. Tune in to discover how she leads with heart and inspires her team to make a difference.

For more updates and exclusive content, follow us on Instagram @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast.